The United Nations human rights office, OHCHR, has recently concluded an investigation into six attacks that they have deemed as representative of Israeli tactics during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. These attacks involved the suspected use of bombs weighing up to 2,000lbs on residential buildings, a school, refugee camps, and a market. The weapons used, measuring approximately 12 feet in length, were deployed between October 9 and December 2, 2023, resulting in 218 confirmed deaths. However, OHCHR believes that the actual number of fatalities is likely much higher.
High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk expressed concern over Israel’s disregard for civilian lives in their bombing campaign, stating that the requirement to choose means and methods of warfare that minimize civilian harm has been consistently violated. The OHCHR report highlighted an IDF update from November 11, 2023, which stated that over 5,000 targets had been struck by the Israeli Air Force in an effort to eliminate threats in real time. By that time, Gazan health authorities had documented the deaths of 11,078 Palestinians, with an additional 2,700 missing and approximately 27,490 injured.
The report detailed a specific strike on the Ash Shuja neighborhood in Gaza City, where a span of destruction measuring roughly 130 meters across had occurred, resulting in the destruction of 15 buildings. OHCHR noted that approximately nine 2,000lb GBU-31 bombs were used in this attack, leading to the reported deaths of at least 60 people. The report accused Israel of failing to effectively distinguish between civilians and combatants in their use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in densely populated areas.
International Humanitarian Law (IHL) mandates the protection of civilian lives and infrastructure during armed conflicts, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing civilian safety. Ajith Sunghay, Head of the OHCHR Office in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described the dire situation in Gaza, where people are struggling to survive amidst widespread destruction.
Mr. Sunghay recounted his observations from an assessment mission in various locations across Gaza, highlighting the overcrowded hospitals, lack of clean water, and unsanitary conditions in makeshift shelters. He mentioned the constant sounds of war – bombs, gunfire, and drones – that echo day and night, creating a harrowing environment for the residents of Gaza.
The conflict in Gaza has had devastating consequences for the civilian population, with thousands of lives lost, families displaced, and infrastructure destroyed. The use of heavy explosives in densely populated areas has raised concerns about the indiscriminate and disproportionate nature of Israeli attacks, leading to widespread condemnation from the international community.
The OHCHR report serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of war and the urgent need for all parties involved to adhere to international law and respect the rights of civilians in conflict zones. As the world watches the situation in Gaza unfold, calls for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and the protection of innocent lives grow louder. It is crucial for all stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of civilians and work towards a sustainable and just peace in the region.
